IBS with Diarrhea: Assess frequency and consistency of stools and other IBS symptoms (bloating, cramping) daily.

Monitor bowel function. Diarrhea, abdominal cramping, fever, and bloody stools should be reported to health care professional promptly as a sign of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD). May begin up to several wk following cessation of therapy.

Lab Test Considerations:

May cause lymphocytosis, monocytosis, and neutropenia.

Potential Diagnoses

Implementation

Do not confuse rifaximin with rifampin.

PO: Administer with or without food.

Patient/Family Teaching

Instruct patient to take rifaximin as directed and to complete therapy, even if feeling better. Caution patient to stop taking rifaximin if diarrhea symptoms get worse, persist more than 24–48 hr, or are accompanied by fever or blood in the stool. Consult health care professional if these occur. Advise patient not to treat diarrhea without consulting health care professional. May occur up to several wk after discontinuation of medication.

May cause dizziness. Caution patient to avoid driving and other activities requiring alertness until response to medication is known.

Advise female patients to notify health care professional if pregnant or if pregnancy is suspected, or if breast feeding.